RIPS 2026: Fully Funded Research Internship in Los Angeles for Math and Science Students

Think of spending your summer in Los Angeles solving real industry research problems with one of the world's best math and science programs, rather than just enjoying iced coffee beneath palm trees. Doesn't that sound unbelievable? Greetings from UCLA's RIPS 2026 (Research in Industrial Projects for Students).

If you’re an Indian student who’s good at math, data, or coding, or honestly, just loves cracking problems that make people go “how did you do that?”, this one’s for you.

What Exactly Is RIPS?

RIPS is where research meets reality. It’s an 8-week summer program (June 22 – August 21, 2026) hosted by the Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics (IPAM) at UCLA. Instead of solving theoretical problems, you’ll work in teams on actual industry projects sponsored by top companies or public sector partners.

You’ll have two mentors, one academic, one industry-based, and at the end of the summer, you’ll deliver both a written report and a big presentation of your findings. Some teams even go on to publish their work or present it at national conferences.

What You Get (Besides Bragging Rights)

• Stipend (yes, you get paid!)
• Travel allowance
• Free housing + meals on campus
• Site visit with industry sponsors
• Partial support for future conference travel
• And of course, the UCLA experience

RIPS isn’t just for U.S. students, international students (including Indians!) can apply, whether you’re studying in India or abroad.

Who Can Apply?

You’re eligible if:

• You’re an undergraduate student (Bachelor’s) or just graduated (Dec 2025 or later).
• You’ve got a solid background in mathematics, and ideally some experience in computer science or data analysis.
• You’re curious about how math and data work in the real world.
• You’re 18 or older and ready for a summer of research, teamwork, and maybe a bit of California adventure.

Official link

What It’s Like to Be in RIPS?

Here’s the best part, you live and work on the UCLA campus, which is just a few miles from the Santa Monica beach.
You’ll share dorms, workspaces, and endless coffee breaks with other brilliant students. Expect group discussions, “aha” moments, and maybe even midnight brainstorming sessions. And if you’re lucky, weekend getaways to national parks, LA’s art scene, or Hollywood studios.

Important Dates

• Program Duration: June 22 – August 21, 2026
• Applications Open: November 2025

You’ll need to submit your CV, transcripts, and references through the MathPrograms portal. Pro tip: don’t wait until the last day, competition is fierce!

TL;DR - Why Indian Students Shouldn’t Miss RIPS 2026

Because it's not often that you get to conduct practical research in Los Angeles, with all costs covered, and create a global network of researchers and scientists.

This is your cue to apply if you've ever wanted to witness how science, math, and data can transform the world while having an unforgettable summer.

Call to Action:

Ready to trade your monsoon for Malibu? Applications open soon in November 2025. Bookmark IPAM’s RIPS-LA page and prep your documents quickly.